Driving in Hot Conditions
It’s summer and the sun is shining (well, at least it should be), which means it’s time to start thinking about how to drive safely in the heat. When the weather’s nice there’s nothing better than getting to a nice beach or going for a cruise, music playing, and vibes are on point.
From sunglasses to selecting the right routes, here are some of the best ways to drive as comfortably as possible in the blazing sun.
Can you wear sunglasses when driving?
There are a few questions surrounding this topic. Are you allowed to wear them? Will you be fined if you wear them? The good news is that there’s actually a way to tell – if your glasses allow 80-100% light transmission then you should be OK wearing them.
So basically no black out glasses, stick with a light tint on them to make sure you’re safe as you don’t want to be landed with a fine.
Is it illegal to drive in flip flops or sandals?
The simple answer is no. However, just because it isn’t illegal that doesn’t mean it’s appropriate or safe.
When driving in either flip flops, sandals, or barefoot make sure that it doesn’t hinder your ability to drive and that you’re still able to operate the pedals properly.
Tips to plan a journey
Plan ahead! If you know you’re going to be driving long distances in the heat, perhaps look at your route and see if there’s anywhere you can pull over and either get a few minutes in the shade, or even somewhere to buy a nice cold drink. Granted most cars have air con and you’re able to roll the windows down, but just being in the sun can be exhausting, so stay alert.
Car maintenance
Although your car should always be fully maintained, it’s always good to have it checked over just to make sure that you aren’t going to break down in the middle of nowhere and be stranded roadside in the boiling sun.
Whatever your plan was, it’s going to be ruined. It’s also a good idea to double check the air con and windows are working fine as it would be horrible cruising along in the sunshine but you’re roasting inside your car… Definitely a vibe killer.
It’s a good idea to make a checklist of what your car will need to be topped up on when driving in the heat, the “FLOWER” check is always a good way to make sure your car can be running as smoothly as possible. We have a checklist that will help you when you are doing your car maintenance checks.
Air conditioning vs windows down
This is always the debate when it’s scorching hot outside “close the windows, the air con is much better” or “open the windows, the air con uses too much fuel”. On the one hand you have air conditioning, a great way to completely cool the inside of the car, and in most cases it’s far quieter than having the windows open.
Then windows down… this is what is referred to as immaculate vibes, windows down, tunes blasting, cruising and all your friends enjoying. There really isn’t much better than that! But you also have to consider noise from the wind flowing through the car, hair in your face, and potential things flying into the car (mostly insects). So just consider which you prefer as it’s ultimately up to you how you handle the heat.
Bank holidays
With bank holidays in mind it’s essential that you remain safe when on the roads, as not only could the heat be a potential problem, but the roads will be far busier than usual.
With it being warmer weather and busier, this means you’re likely to get caught in traffic in the heat. If you’ve prepared well, here is where you’ll be thanking yourself, whether it be extra drinks, a bag to keep drinks cool, or keeping the air con on, be safe!
On a lighter note, the good weather is a chance to go and have some fun in the sun. Pick a good destination for that road trip, windows down, music up, and make the most of it!
Tips when driving in the heat
- Having a thermal water bottle is an ideal way to keep water cool in your car
- If you have a cool bag and some ice packs, then that would also be ideal for storing cold drinks
- Using a visor for your car when it’s parked in the sun, this will help to reduce the inside temperature of the car, so hopefully you’ll be able to touch the steering wheel without burning yourself
- Be prepared! Not only for whatever destination you’re getting to, but also for anything that could potentially happen, be stocked up with the correct resources, and if you’re only using the car for the weekend, check out Veygo’s flexible car insurance
Driving in the heat FAQ’s
Do I need to refuel my car more often in the hot weather?
Not necessarily, warmer air makes fuel last longer. A simple Google search will give you the science behind it or check out Green Car Reports take on it. However, with the weather being nice, you may want to do some exploring. Just because the article claims you get more miles for your money this doesn’t mean that you don’t need to refuel. You should always make sure you have plenty of fuel for your intended journey and some.
Can I get sunburn through car windows?
Although it isn’t guaranteed you’ll catch the sun through your car window, there is definitely a chance of getting caught off guard so always wear sunscreen in hot weather.
How to prevent glare?
Make sure your car windows are as clean as possible, make sure they don’t have any chips and cracks, wear sunglasses, and when possible use a sun visor or hat (as long as it doesn’t reduce visibility).
Temporary car insurance
If you’re heading on road trips this summer and want to share the driving, our flexible car insurance can cover you for as little or as long as you need.